Slave trade period. Southwest Sahara, Sara people. See Westerdijk group SP II #7. Finely designed with its weight invested in the blade by dispensing with grip expansion or wrap. 21 ½” length, straight measure. Forge finished. The spine between the projections chiseled with three talismanic figures. Additional figure or cipher to the enclosed projection. Original finish throughout. The Sara were predated on by the slave trade, particularly the Fulani, as well as Arab traders. These throwing knives were used in tribal war, staged for the purpose of capturing slaves. They were thrown as the opposing forces were closing distance and inflicted disabling wounds to their targets.
